Illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke may occur when the body is unable to lose heat to the environment said Pam Fidler, Manager of Training Services for Australian Red Cross.

"As we saw at the softball tournament in the Riverland over the weekend, heat-induced illnesses and associated dehydration may cause fatigue, dizziness, nausea, headache, seizures and unconsciousness. Thirst may actually be a late symptom," Mrs Fidler said.

Heat exhaustion in its early stage can usually be reversed with prompt care. Often the victim feels better after resting in a cool place and drinking cool water. If the heat exhaustion progresses however the victim's condition will worsen as the body temperature climbs. The victim may vomit and begin to show changes in the level of consciousness.

With the week ahead, Australian Red Cross recommends the following course of action if you suspect that someone is suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

1. Encourage the victim to rest lying down with the legs slightly raised. Loosen and remove excessive clothing.
2. Fan the victim.
3. If the victim is fully conscious, give them small drinks of cool water.
4. Apply wrapped ice packs to the groins and armpits.
5. If the victim is unconscious, care for the airway, breathing and circulation following the Basic Life Support flow chart.
6. Seek medical help.

To learn more about treating heat-induced and other illnesses, it is recommended that everyone undertakes a first aid course. Please telephone Australian Red Cross, South Australia Training Services on 8100 4634 or 1300 367 428 for further information.

Australian Red Cross disaster services are also on high alert this week with the current extreme bushfire danger.